West African Black Pepper Medicinal Uses.

West African black pepper, known botanically as Piper guineense, is a woody vine whose seeds are berries which are known as African black pepper. They are also known as Guinea cubeb, Benin pepper and Ashanti pepper. Locally, they are called uziza, iyere, sasema, kale, masoro, etc. in different parts of West and Central Africa which they are native to.

West African black pepper seeds and leaves are widely used in West Africa for culinary and medicinal purposes because of its aromatic flavour and medicinal properties. The root is also used for medicinal preparations.

West African black pepper seeds contain piperine which is its most active component and is

responsible for its heat. They also contain alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, saponins, peptides, terpenoids and essential oils. They contain high amounts of vitamin C and beta carotene.

West African black pepper seeds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-flatulent, anti-bacterial, anti-virus, astringent and carminative properties. They increase the anti-cancer properties of turmeric when used together and help to increase nutrient absorption from foods.

Because of their  health promoting properties, West African black pepper seeds are used medicinally for the following;

• To cleanse the womb after birth.
• To lower blood pressure.
• To decrease cholesterol levels.
• To treat pneumonia, asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory issues.
• To relieve flatulence, aid digestion and increase stomach acid secretion.
• To treat arthritis, rheumatism and other inflammatory conditions.
• To prevent blood clotting.
• To reduce pain.
• To stimulate metabolism.
• To boost memory.
• To repel insects.

The seeds are part of Nigerian pepper soup ingredients which are very important in Nigeria. The leaves are used to boost fertility, treat intestinal issues and juiced to clear persistent coughs. The roots are used to treat respiratory issues and venereal diseases.

African black pepper seeds are handy to have in the kitchen to include in cooking local dishes and treating ailments. Follow on Twitter @heal2bwell. Comments are appreciated below.